What is the Max Length of a RuneScape Name?
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The maximum length for a display name in Old School RuneScape (OSRS) is 12 characters. This limit applies to the visible name that other players see in the game. It’s crucial to note that certain punctuation characters, such as @, are omitted from the display name when it is set. For instance, if you attempt to use the name “Rs@Player,” it will actually be displayed as “RsPlayer.” This character limitation is an important consideration when choosing a name for your OSRS character.
RuneScape Naming Conventions and Limitations
Character Name Rules
When choosing a name in OSRS, you need to be aware of several rules and limitations:
- Character Limit: As stated, your display name cannot exceed 12 characters.
- Inappropriate Names: Names that are deemed inappropriate, offensive, or violate the game’s terms of service are not allowed. These names will be flagged by Jagex and will not be available.
- Unique Names: Each display name must be unique. If a name is already in use by another player, you won’t be able to select it.
- Punctuation: Certain punctuation, like the @ symbol, is removed when the name is displayed, although you can still type these characters while creating the name.
- Reserved Names: Your previous name is reserved to your account for at least 35 days after a name change. However, this reservation is lost if you change your name again, if the name is removed from the game, or if the reservation period ends.
Account Names vs. Display Names
It’s important to differentiate between your RuneScape account name and your display name. Your account name is the name you use to log in, and it is separate from your in-game character name. Your account name is not subject to the same 12-character limit. You can change your RuneScape account name via the account management section on the RuneScape website. Display names, however, are those that are seen by other players in the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About RuneScape Names
1. How long are names reserved for in OSRS after a name change?
Your previous display name is reserved to your account for at least 35 days after a name change. However, this reservation is lost if you change your name again, if the name is removed from the game, or if the reservation period ends.
2. Do OSRS names expire?
Yes, in a sense. Account names are reserved for 35 days after the change. After this time period, the name can become available again to other players, assuming it hasn’t been taken out of circulation or otherwise removed from the game.
3. Why is my chosen OSRS name not available?
If you are unable to choose a name, it’s likely because the name is either inappropriate, taken by another player, removed from the game, banned, or otherwise not in circulation.
4. Can I use symbols or special characters in my OSRS name?
While you can type certain symbols like @ while creating your name, these symbols will be omitted from the display name. The final visible name will be without the special character.
5. How do I change my RuneScape account name?
Your account name is different from your display name. To change your account name: Log in to your account management page on the RuneScape website, and click the edit icon next to your account name. This will allow you to change the name you use for logging into the game.
6. What is the difference between an account name and a display name in RuneScape?
Your account name is used to log into the game and can be changed through account management. Your display name is what other players see in-game and is subject to the 12-character limit. They are two different identifiers for your account.
7. Does Jagex ever release inactive names?
Yes, Jagex does release inactive names periodically. These name releases typically happen every 3 to 4 years. However, they don’t advertise when a name release is due until about a month before. The most recent release happened in 2017, and the one before that was in 2014, so it is likely to occur again.
8. Can I get a banned name back?
Names associated with banned accounts are not generally available again. If a name was banned due to policy violation, it’s unlikely to be released for use by other players.
9. Is it illegal to sell OSRS accounts?
Selling OSRS accounts is against Jagex’s Terms of Service. All game accounts are the property of Jagex, and players are only granted limited permission to use them. Nobody has Jagex’s permission to sell accounts, and doing so can lead to the account being banned.
10. If I get a name change, is my old name gone forever?
No, your old name is reserved to your account for 35 days. After this period, the name may be released for others to use if the conditions for reservation are not met.
11. Can I have a name with numbers in OSRS?
Yes, you can use numbers within the 12-character limit. Numbers are not removed like some punctuation characters.
12. What happens if an account becomes inactive with a good name?
While inactive accounts are not deleted, their display names may be released after a certain period. This can happen during name releases. However, Jagex does not provide an exact timeframe for when names become available again.
13. Why does OSRS have a character limit on names?
The 12-character limit is likely in place to maintain an organized and manageable player base and prevent extremely long names from being displayed in the game’s chat system. It ensures a more streamlined experience.
14. What should I do if my desired name is unavailable?
If your desired name is unavailable, try to get creative. Consider adding numbers, shortening words, or making slight variations to achieve a name that is still to your liking within the limits. Also, you may have to wait during a name release to try again.
15. If my name is currently reserved, can someone else take it while it’s still reserved for me?
No, while your name is reserved, no other player can claim it. The reservation period of 35 days gives you exclusive rights to it during that time. Only after that reservation period ends, and other condition’s are met, can that name be available to other players.